Read
The Law of God
1Wicked people run away
when no one chases them,
but those who live right
are as brave as lions.
2In time of civil war
there are many leaders,
but a sensible leader
restores law and order.
3When someone poor takes over
and mistreats the poor,
it's like a heavy rain
destroying the crops.
Reflect
As I write it is raining. Rain is so beautiful as it falls, so musical as it strikes the roof, and life giving, that is, as long as it arrives in a Goldilocks kind of way, not too much, not too little, but just right. Just a drizzle and the ground is only dampened, but a driving rain can wash away the little seeds leaving no crop and perhaps no topsoil so necessary for fertility.
Every company, every department requires a boss, and the boss is to exercise authority and that authority, like rain, can be beautiful and life giving. Or not. Sometimes a ruler feels it is important that everyone know who is in charge. Thunder and lightning seem to surround her: people who are grieving are forced back to work, or the strictest possible interpretation of company policies are enforced, with the result that resentment becomes rife and productivity begins to wash away in the downpour of authority. Soon resentment turns to rebellion, simmering beneath the surface, and turning the workplace into a variety of tribes each dedicated to their own self-interests and perhaps their own survival, for fear is everywhere. One day a crisis appears, calling for a unified and energetic response. Bold wisdom is the order of the day. But no, instead everyone acts from fear in accordance with how they perceive their best interests, and the company washes away in the storm
Righteousness is more than being nice. Whatever measure of authority you have, exercise it with discernment. This means understanding the limits of authority, and working always for the big picture good of the organization, the church or your family, as well as the short term good. And foster loyalty and respect by being a leader who is personally righteous. In this way neither you nor those around you will live in fear but will, even in moments of crisis, be bold as a lion.
Respond
Father in heaven, even as I seek to be your servant let me also give leadership to others as a servant, seeking not my own interests but the interests of others.
Franklin Pyles
Franklin Pyles was a pastor of churches that served inner city neighborhoods, taught theology at Canadian Theological Seminary, and then was a pastor in a medium sized Ontario city. He then served his denomination, The Christian & Missionary Alliance as President for the full time allotted. He has written on C.S. Lewis and on a variety of ministry and church concerns. He continues a preaching and teaching ministry, currently at McMaster Divinity College. Publications: Most electronic and in house for the Alliance.